Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the week-long celebration, organised by Bicycle Queensland, was a great initiative to get more people on bikes.

“Cycling is great for people of all ages and abilities, whether you are a first time cyclists or a pro,” Mr Bailey said.

“Activities and events such as those offered in Bike Week are a great way for people to experience the many benefits of cycling first-hand.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to making it easier for more people to cycle more often, and as a cyclist myself it’s great to see so many people getting involved during Bike Week.

“There are many events that will take place during the week including a Ride to Work Day Breakfast on Thursday 11 May which I will be attending, and the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Experience on Sunday 14 May.

“With only one-third of the total number of cyclists being women, I’m also excited to see events catering to women, such as the Pier to Point Women’s Ride along the Redcliffe and Sandgate Foreshores on Saturday May 13.”

Bicycle Queensland CEO Ben Wilson said Bike Week encourages people of all ages and cycling abilities to cycle more often as part of an active and healthy lifestyle.

“Whether you’re a recreational rider wanting to socialise with like-minded bike riders, a regular rider wanting to challenge yourself, or you haven’t been on a bike for years and want to test the theory that you can’t ever forget how to ride a bike, there will be an event or activity for everyone,” Mr Wilson said.

“Bike Week is Queensland’s largest annual cycling festival and I’m really looking forward to the wide range of events across the state including the long-standing Great Brisbane Bike Ride and Family Fun Ride on Sunday 7 May.”

Mr Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to continuing to improve cycling infrastructure across Queensland to support the cycling community.

“We know that 760,000 Queenslanders ride a bike at least once a week, but another 1.53 million people would ride if the conditions were right, or they felt more comfortable cycling,” he said.

“We are committed to building safe, direct and connected cycle networks so we can grow our cycling culture, create cycle friendly communities, and improve safety for cyclists.

“We are investing almost $42 million into high-quality cycle infrastructure, planning and programs across Queensland this year (2016-17), and over $162 million over the next four years.

“I congratulate Bicycle Queensland on their role in promoting cycling and want to thank them for organising such an excellent festival for all types of riders, young and old.”

To find a Bike Week 2017 event near you, visit www.bikeweekqld.com.au

Source
Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey